Peter Jackson: It's Official – Orlando Bloom Has Joined 'The Hobbit'

Orlando Bloom will reprise his role as bow and arrow-wielding elf Legolas in “The Hobbit.”

After months of speculation as to whether the English actor would take part in the two-part “Lord of the Rings” prequel, director Peter Jackson finally confirmed the news on Friday.

“10 years on, I’m thrilled to be working with Orlando again,” Peter said in a message posted on his Facebook page. “I look older - he doesn’t! Orlando created an iconic character with his portrayal of Legolas, and we’re excited to be revisiting Middle Earth with him once more.”

The 34-year-old actor is the latest “LOTR” film alum to sign on for “The Hobbit.” Previously announced returning actors include Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett, Sir Ian McKellan and Elijah Wood, who will reprise his role as the beloved Frodo.

It was unclear how Legolas would feature in “The Hobbit,” as his character is not in J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous book.

Orlando will next appear as the Duke of Buckingham in “The Three Musketeers,” alongside Milla Jovovoich and “Water for Elephants” star Christoph Waltz.

In addition to his numerous film roles, Orlando took on the role of father in January, when his wife (Victoria’s Secret beauty Miranda Kerr) gave birth to the couple’s first child, a boy named Flynn.

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